Saudi eVisa Fee
Traveling to Saudi Arabia became simpler in 2019 with the introduction of the electronic visa, called the Saudi eVisa. This new digital visa allows tourists, business travelers, and Umrah pilgrims from eligible countries to visit without the need for complicated embassy visits or paperwork.
But one detail you shouldn’t overlook is the Saudi eVisa fee. Knowing exactly how much you’ll pay beforehand helps you plan your expenses clearly and avoid unexpected costs.
Here, you’ll find easy-to-follow information about the Saudi Arabia eVisa fees, who’s eligible, and the simple application process, so you’ll have everything you need to plan a worry-free trip.
Table of contents
How Much Does the Saudi eVisa Cost?
Currently, the total Saudi Arabia eVisa fee is USD 279.
This cost includes a service fee for processing your application and a health insurance fee.
Health insurance is mandatory and is included as part of the Saudi eVisa issuance process. It covers you for medical needs during your trip, so you don’t need to arrange separate travel insurance for basic health coverage.
Always check for any updates to the fee before you apply, as the Saudi eVisa fee can change from time to time.
Accepted Payment Methods
You can pay the Saudi eVisa fee online using these accepted methods:
- Debit card
- Credit card
- Apple Pay
- Google Pay
These options make it easier for travelers to choose what works best for them. To avoid any payment errors, keep these tips in mind:
- Check that your card or digital wallet is active and has enough funds.
- Enter your payment details correctly before you submit.
- Use a secure and steady internet connection.
- Watch for any bank alerts that might block an online payment.
Is the Saudi eVisa Fee Refundable?
It’s important to know that the Saudi eVisa fee is generally non-refundable.
Once you pay the application processing fee, you won’t receive a refund, even if your visa application is denied or you decide not to travel to Saudi Arabia.
This rule applies to the main visa fee, as well as any other costs associated with your application, such as the required insurance.
Saudi eVisa: Key Details
Before you apply for a Saudi Arabia eVisa, it helps to know some key facts about what the eVisa covers, who can apply, how long it stays valid, and other rules you should follow.
These details can save you from surprises later and make your trip easier to plan.
Purpose of Visit
A Saudi eVisa is given for tourism, business, and visiting family and friends. Umrah is also covered under this visa category, so you don’t need to pay a separate Umrah visa price. If you hold an eVisa, you are not permitted to take on any paid employment or work while in Saudi Arabia.
Eligible Nationalities
People from 66 countries can pay the Saudi visit visa fee and apply through the simple online portal. These countries include the USA, UK, Australia, New Zealand, around 40 countries in Europe, and a few nations in Asia and Africa.
In addition, residents of GCC countries and individuals who hold a valid residency permit, tourist visa, or business visa from the UK, the US, or a Schengen country are also eligible to apply.
However, citizens of Chad, Ethiopia, Iran, Libya, Palestine, and Syria are not eligible under these categories.
Validity
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- The eVisa is valid for one year from the date of issue
- It can be used for multiple trips unless stated differently on the eVisa.
- The duration of stay will be up to 90 days.
- You cannot extend your eVisa once you have it.
- If your eVisa expires before you travel to Saudi Arabia, you must submit a new application and pay another Saudi Arabia eVisa application fee.
Processing Time
When you apply online, the processing time for a Saudi Arabia visa is usually less than two business days.
Umrah Access
Travelers can perform Umrah using the Saudi eVisa but not during the Hajj season. Anyone who wants to do the Hajj must apply for a special Hajj visa through licensed travel agents.
Who Can Apply
You must be at least 18 years old to apply for your Saudi eVisa. If you are helping someone under 18 apply, you must have the legal right to do it for them.
Saudi eVisa Requirements
If you’re planning to pay the Saudi Arabia tourist visa price and apply online, you’ll need to have a few things ready first. Here’s what to check off your list so you meet all the Saudi eVisa requirements:
Valid Passport
Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months from the day you plan to enter Saudi Arabia.
Recent Photo
You’ll need one color photo with a white background. It should be 2x2 inches, clear, and no larger than 5MB. Your face should have a natural expression, take up about 80% of the photo, and show you with no eyeglasses or headwear, unless it’s for religious reasons.
Complete the Application
Fill out the online form with your personal details and passport info. Take your time so you don’t make mistakes that could slow things down.
Payment method
You will need a valid payment method to pay the Saudi visa price. Paying online is quick and keeps your application moving forward.
Email Address
You must provide a valid email address to receive your eVisa. Make sure it’s one you check regularly so you don’t miss the visa email.
How to Apply for a Saudi eVisa
Applying for your Saudi eVisa is simple if you follow each step in order. Here’s what you need to do to avoid mistakes and keep things moving.
Visit the Online eVisa Portal
Visit the Saudi Visa online portal to apply for a Saudi eVisa.
Complete the Online Application Form
Fill out the online form with your personal information, passport details, your residence information, and your reason for visiting. Whether it’s for tourism, visiting friends and family, business, or Umrah (outside the Hajj season).
Upload Your Documents
Upload a clear scan of your passport’s info page and a digital passport photo.
If you’re applying based on GCC residency, upload your resident visa and proof of occupation.
If you’re applying with a valid UK, US, or Schengen visa or residency permit, upload a copy of that visa or permit as well.
Pay the Fee
Pay the visa fee, which is $279. This fee includes insurance or other service charges, so have your payment method ready.
Submit & Track Your Application
Once you’ve submitted your application, it may take up to 48 hours to process. Please check your email for any updates regarding your status.
Receive and Check Your eVisa
If your eVisa is approved, you’ll get it by email. Double-check that all details match your passport exactly. Print a copy and keep it with you during your trip.
Travel to Saudi Arabia
Use your eVisa to enter the country. Remember, the visa can’t be extended, so plan your stay within the allowed time.
How to Avoid Mistakes That Could Lead to Reapplication
Nobody wants to pay the Saudi eVisa fee twice because of a small mistake. A little care now can save you time and money later. Here are some easy tips to help you get it right the first time:
- Fill out every field completely. Don’t leave blanks or write N/A.
- Take your time filling out the online form. Review each part for typos or missing details.
- Make sure your name, passport number, and birth date match exactly what’s on your passport.
- Double-check that your passport is valid for at least six months from the date of your planned arrival.
- Use a clear, recent passport photo that meets the size and background rules.
- Upload a clear photo of your passport.
- Use a safe and steady internet connection when you pay. Confirm that your payment goes through fully to keep your application moving.
These small steps can help you stay away from delays and having to start over again.
What Other Saudi Visas Cost: A Quick Overview
Besides the Saudi eVisa, there are other types of Saudi visas that you may need to be aware of. Here’s a simple look at what you could expect to pay.
Work Visa
The Saudi Arabia Work Visa price can vary for each individual. It depends on your type of job, how long you’ll stay, and your nationality. Some work visas can cost several hundred dollars, while others may cost thousands. In many cases, your Saudi employer will pay for this visa.
Student Visa
The Student Visa fee changes based on how long you’ll study, which school you’ll attend, and your nationality. Most students can expect to pay between $100 and $500.
Hajj Visa
The Hajj visa itself is free, but you must purchase an authorised Hajj package. These packages cost about $4,000 on the economy end and can exceed $20,000 for deluxe or VIP options, depending on your country of departure, the agency you book through, hotel class, and room occupancy.
Umrah Visa
For Umrah, the visa fee is bundled into the Umrah package price. Most packages run from roughly $500 to $2,000. Keep in mind that you can also perform Umrah using your Saudi eVisa instead of the traditional Umrah Visa.
FAQ
How much is a Saudi tourist visa for US citizens?
Like all eligible eVisa countries, US citizens must pay a total Saudi eVisa fee of $279. This fee covers both the service charge and the required travel insurance.
What is the Saudi eVisa for US passport holders?
The Saudi eVisa for US citizens is an electronic travel permit that lets you visit Saudi Arabia without needing to visit an embassy. It’s designed for short-term stays for purposes like tourism, business trips, or Umrah (when it’s not Hajj season).
US passport holders can complete the entire process online, including payment, and receive the visa via email.
How to apply for a Saudi visa from Germany?
Citizens of eligible countries, including Germany, can apply through the Saudi Visa online portal.
Can I enter Saudi Arabia with a Schengen visa?
Yes. If you hold a valid and previously used Schengen visa, you may be eligible to apply online for a Saudi eVisa. Here’s what you need:
- A tourist or business Schengen visa that is still valid at the time of travel.
- The visa must have been used at least once, showing an entry stamp from a Schengen country.
- Your passport must match the visa and be valid for at least six months.
- When you apply, you’ll pay the eVisa fee online and receive the visa by email before you travel.
This eVisa option is open to travelers whose nationality is not on the regular eVisa-eligible list but who hold a valid, previously used US, UK, or Schengen tourist or business visa; it lets them apply online instead of through an embassy.
Can I bring family members with me on my Saudi eVisa?
No, you can’t add family members to a single Saudi eVisa. Every traveler, adults and children alike, must hold their own eVisa. You can apply for all family members at the same time, which makes it easy and convenient to travel together.
Do GCC residents have different requirements for the eVisa?
Yes. If you live in the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Oman, Qatar, or Kuwait, and your nationality is not on the regular eVisa-eligible list, you can still apply for a Saudi eVisa under the special GCC-resident rule.
You must hold a valid residency ID from your GCC country, and it must be valid for at least three more months when you apply.
Can I convert my eVisa into a work visa while in Saudi Arabia?
No. Saudi Arabia does not allow a direct switch from an eVisa to a work visa while you are inside the country. If you receive a job offer during your visit, your employer must apply for a work permit through the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development.
Once approved, you’ll need to exit Saudi Arabia and re-enter with the appropriate work visa attached to your passport.